2018 NBA Playoffs Round 1 Recap: Game 2

With only three games left before the home teams hit the road, Bitcoin basketball odds are looking livelier than ever this year as the playoffs begin to unravel. Upsets and surprises continue to draw attention, and teams try to increase their momentum. This 2018 NBA Playoffs Round 1 recap should get you up to speed with the recent matches.

76ers vs Heat

Dwayne Wade showcased a beautifully-executed “vintage” performance, scoring 28 points to tie the series and at the same time end the 76ers’ 17-game win streak. The 113-103 closing scoreline, in favor of the Heat, was almost snatched after the 76ers chased down a 16-point lead to just two points in the late fourth quarter. The crowd went wild, but not after Wade hit two big buckets that stretched their lead. This series is looking to be one for the books as early as the second match, so watch out as these two teams continue the battle–this time, in front of Miami’s home crowd.

Warriors vs Spurs

The relentless Warriors remain composed even without star player Stephen Curry on the floor due to a knee injury. Even though the Spurs proved to be a tough team to beat in the playoffs, the Warriors didn’t need Curry to cruise past the 5-time NBA champions. With Kawhi Leonard missing from the Spurs, this series might not be threatening to last year’s champions. Hopefully, the Spurs will put up a tougher fight as they play their first home game in this year’s playoffs. The game closed with a 116-101 score in favor of the Warriors.

Raptors vs Wizards

Demar DeRozan pulled off another big game after matching his career playoff-high with 37 points. Following his lead was Jonas Valanciunas with 19 points and 14 rebounds to overcome the Washington Wizards 130-119. Meanwhile, John Wall, Mike Scott, and Ty Lawson’s combined score of 63 points wasn’t enough to take down DeRozan and company. The Raptors take a comfortable 2-0 lead as they are set to play away from their home crowd next game.

Celtics vs Bucks

The Boston Celtics added insult to injury after game 1’s overtime win with another. The first half of the game saw plenty of turnovers and second-chance points given to the Celtics, which put the Bucks down 9 points after the halftime break. Even after Giannis Antetokounmpo erupted with 30 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists, he was still held back after the Celtics tidied up their defense–rendering him static for the most part. Now trailing a 2-game lead, the Bucks has to face the daunting task of having to get out of this ditch. Luckily, they have their home crowd behind them for the next two games.

Trail Blazers vs Pelicans

Anthony Davis and Jrue Holiday carried the Pelicans to take a 2-0 lead against the Trail Blazers. A 33-point career playoff-high for Holiday meant that they were taking the game to their home court with plenty of breathing room. Davis’ 22-point contribution and Nikola Mirotić’s 17 points were enough to seal it for the Pelicans. On the other hand, the Blazers got outplayed and Lillard doesn’t look like he’s in top form. After this 111-102 defeat, the Blazers are going to have to thread a needle to beat the Pelicans next game.